Over the weekend in Kenya, five individuals tragically ended their lives in separate incidents, raising alarms about a troubling rise in suicides.
In Mukuyuni, Makueni County, 19-year-old Patrick Kiio Mwendo was found hanging from a piece of clothing at his father’s homestead in Ukonze village. The police are investigating his death, and the motive remains unknown. His body has been taken to a local mortuary for an autopsy.
Another shocking case occurred in Bahati, Nakuru County. 37-year-old Boniface Kariuki Njuguna was discovered hanging from barbed wire tied around his neck at his father’s house. A suicide note was found, but its contents have not been released. His body has been sent for a postmortem examination.
In Kakamega County, 58-year-old Emmanuel Kitala Muhatia was found hanging from a mango tree with a manila rope in Bulupi Village. No suicide note was found, and the reasons for his action are still under investigation.
In Kiambu County, 24-year-old Samuel Mwangi Kimani attempted to take his life by jumping into a dam. Although divers rescued him, he later died at Wangige Level Four Hospital. Like the others, no suicide note was found, and the motive remains unclear.
Finally, in Naromoru, Nyeri County, 64-year-old Julius Mwangi Karue was discovered hanging from a tree on his farm. Police found his body, but no suicide note was present, and the reasons behind his death are still unknown.
These incidents underscore a growing crisis, with police reporting up to two suicides daily. Most of the recent victims were male. The government is now focusing on campaigns to address this alarming issue. The World Health Organization links these tragedies to factors such as joblessness, academic pressures, financial difficulties, and mental health issues like depression and substance misuse.
As the community grapples with these tragic events, it is crucial to offer support to those in need and seek solutions to this escalating crisis.
